[Gabbin’ with Gamers] Erin (a.k.a. EB3Dprints)

January 10, 2018

Welcome to the latest installment of Gabbin’ with Gamers where The Switch Effect is happy to welcome Erin (a.k.a. eb3dprints), who has a 3D printing Etsy shop. If that wasn’t cool enough, one of Erin’s latest projects is a custom Switch cartridge holder. Once we saw the prototype on Instagram, it was clear that Erin’s work needed to be spotlighted!

Thank you Erin for giving us this interview. We came upon your Instagram page and saw that you are that you are a 3D printer designer whose recent project is a Nintendo Switch cartridge holder. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?I am 3D designer and self-taught 3D printer currently living in the San Francisco Bay Area, with my husband Greg and our cat Opal. Besides working on my Etsy business I have been helping kids in an after-school program related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). I enjoy gaming whenever I can and recently got the Switch as an anniversary gift.

What was the first console and game that you owned?The original Nintendo NES, I’m not sure what the first game was. I think it was Super Mario Bros.

Do you have any fond childhood memories based around gaming?Plenty, haha! I think my favorite childhood memory was stomping around in the living room with the original Nintendo and that power pad thing (like the DDR pad) that connected to the console. I would attempt to be an Olympic athlete jumping hurdles in the game Track & Field, but I probably looked ridiculous! Growing up, gaming with my brother was always fun, even if we ended up being a bit competitive in N64 Smash and Mario Kart.

Let’s talk about your 3D printing business. What inspired you to work with 3D printers?After I graduated from art school at the University of Cincinnati DAAP with a degree in electronic media, I knew that I wanted to pursue digital art. I had taken some 3D design classes and there was a large scale 3D printer at the school. 3D printing was just starting to become more affordable for at-home use. I love the idea of being able to create something digitally and replicate it in the real world; it is a very Star Trek feeling!

How long have you been doing this?I’ve had the printer for about 3 years and started out with a blog to help motivate me to share my projects. I launched the Etsy in 2016 to make it more than just a hobby. I find it amazing to be able to make things for other people to enjoy!

What have you created so far?Lots of fidget spinners! Even though the fad has passed, I still love making them! I’ve also made lots of random projects such as Pokémon keychains, succulent planters, and a Fitbit holder. It feels good to be able to make my own everyday items without having to purchase them from big box stores.

What is a project you want to work on?I have a long list of those! I was trying to incorporate a Zelda themed Switch cartridge holder, and maybe other game themed ones. I would also be happy for any suggestions from the community!

Can you provide a status update on the Switch cartridge holders?Yes, they became available in November for $12-$13 (varies by color). There are 18 different color choices that you can match to your Joy-Cons.

The design is an adaption from a file by jcarolinares on thingiverse. You can check out the thingiverse file at https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2265712 and make the cartridge holder yourself if you have access to a 3D printer.

Here’s one to get you thinking. If you weren’t doing art, what would be your hobby?That’s a hard one! I don’t know how I would function without art. I’d probably have more time to play video games!

We at The Switch Effect are obviously big fans of Nintendo’s new console. What are your impressions of the Switch?It’s really an amazing versatile system. I love how they have been successful at integrating the classic Nintendo feel to a lot of the games.

Which new games are you looking forward to the most?Hmm, probably Breath of the Wild Champion DLC Pack 2, I can’t wait to see what Zelda and Link are up to next. Also Super Smash Bros.; definitely the go to classic party game!

We came across your Instagram account and loved seeing your work. What interested you in starting a social media account?I was trying it as a way to promote my Etsy store and share how 3D printing works. I think I have stopped using Pinterest in favor of Instagram because it is such a welcoming community of artists, makers and enthusiasts!

What is the best way for our readers/followers to keep up with you and purchase your products?I tend to post most of my projects and product updates on my Instagram (@EB3Dprints) page and my products are available to purchase on Etsy at www.etsy.com/shop/EB3Dprints.

Last question now that we’ve run you through the gauntlet. Is there anything else you’d like to share?If you’re interested in 3D printing or designing for 3D printing, start learning CAD. There are plenty of free programs and YouTube channels to get you started on your journey. I would suggest Tinkercad for beginners. My go to program is Autodesk Fusion 360 and there is a free version available for hobbyists. More information can be found below:

If you don’t have access to a 3D printer, there are plenty of websites to order your 3D prints from such as Shapeways (www.shapeways.com/) or you can try your local library to see if they have one available.

Always keep gaming and making! Thanks for having me! – Erin

Thank you again for taking the time to speak with The Switch Effect and for our readers to learn more about you and your 3D printing.